Jury fails to reach verdict over MP’s ex-wife

There are fears the ‘UK cat killer’ has struck in Sussex

The jury in the trial of disgraced Eastleigh MP Chris Huhne’s ex-wife has been discharged after failing to reach a verdict in her trial for perverting the course of justice by taking his speeding points a decade ago.

Vicky Pryce, 60, of Clapham, south London, denied the charge, claiming Huhne coerced her into taking the points.

The jury of eight women and four men was discharged at Southwark Crown Court in London after telling trial judge Mr Justice Sweeney it was “highly unlikely” that even a majority verdict would be reached.

Mr Justice Sweeney told the jury: “I have received your note which indicates that it is ‘highly unlikely’ that you are going to reach even a majority verdict.

“I am grateful for that.

“Against the background of the length of time that you have been in retirement already, I have decided therefore, and it is my decision one way or the other, that I must discharge you from any further deliberations.

“That means that your role in this case is now over.”

Pryce, who will now face a retrial, showed little emotion as the judge discharged the jury, sitting with her chin in her hand.

Huhne resigned as Eastleigh MP earlier this month after admitting perverting the course of justice.